Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has often been left frustrated by his defence in recent Premier League games.
This time the goalkeeper was left praising the players for their approach in the 1-1 draw against Chelsea.
De Gea told the club website: “We knew we had to not concede for at least the first 20-25 minutes.
“We defended quite well; aggressive. The players gave everything and it was good to see the players running all over the place, trying to play and trying to fight for the club.”
United did not concede from open play and were only breached when Aaron Wan-Bissaka gave away a second half penalty.
De Gea was sent the wrong way by Jorginho and was unable to keep up his recent penalty save record, having kept out spot kicks against West Ham and Watford.
Improvement
United’s improvement has come after a spell where it could not possibly have got worse. The 4-1 defeat to Watford was embarrassing for all concerned.
Now two games later, United have not conceded a goal from open play, and face Arsenal up next, who have recently returned to form.
De Gea added that he was still frustrated not to get the win against Chelsea and said one point was not enough.
The Spaniard said: “I think for us a point is never enough. But in the situation that we are in – a difficult situation – I think they had very good chances, but we have a point, the team fought for the point so I’m proud of the players.
“We were very compact, and very determined as a team, so I’m happy with the performance.”
De Gea himself made a number of key saves, especially early on, and set the tone to give his defence confidence for the game ahead.
The improved defensive display came without captain Harry Maguire – who did feature against Villarreal, and Luke Shaw, who missed both matches.
Shaw in particular should have to work to get back into the starting line-up, and not just walk back in when he is passed fit.
That could soon be a decision for a new manager, with Ralf Rangnick set to be appointed on an interim basis, BBC Sport report.
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